A property developer has praised government officials for approving compensation terms that will allow more than 11,000 families to obtain formal ownership of homes built on contested farmland. Eddie Pfugari Properties announced readiness to work with authorities following cabinet endorsement of a payment framework affecting residents at Whitecliffe Farm, where people were placed under a housing initiative two decades ago.
Edward Nyanyiwa Jr., who manages the company, commended President Emmerson Mnangagwa for what he described as practical leadership during remarks made after last week's cabinet session. Authorities agreed to pay the firm $44 million for approximately 850 hectares where residents have lived without a clear legal status since being relocated by officials. The approved User Pays Principle requires occupants to cover full development expenses while the government mediates purchase negotiations.
Information Minister Jenfan Muswere said on Tuesday that the arrangement will extend to similar situations nationwide where households occupy disputed property. Residents will receive title documents through a presidential program, gaining access to utilities and municipal services while local governments collect tax revenue. The developer had obtained an eviction order in 2012 but declined enforcement for humanitarian reasons.
Edward Nyanyiwa Jr., who manages the company, commended President Emmerson Mnangagwa for what he described as practical leadership during remarks made after last week's cabinet session. Authorities agreed to pay the firm $44 million for approximately 850 hectares where residents have lived without a clear legal status since being relocated by officials. The approved User Pays Principle requires occupants to cover full development expenses while the government mediates purchase negotiations.
Information Minister Jenfan Muswere said on Tuesday that the arrangement will extend to similar situations nationwide where households occupy disputed property. Residents will receive title documents through a presidential program, gaining access to utilities and municipal services while local governments collect tax revenue. The developer had obtained an eviction order in 2012 but declined enforcement for humanitarian reasons.
